In the heart of Ichikawa City Zoo, a tiny Japanese macaque named Punch (or "Panchi-kun") has captured the world's attention with the viral video. Born on July 26, 2025, Punch’s life began with a tragedy common in nature but painful to witness: his mother, a first-time parent likely overwhelmed by record-breaking summer heat, rejected him at birth.

Deprived of the vital physical contact newborn monkeys need for muscle development and emotional security, zookeepers turned to an unlikely surrogate: a large, bug-eyed IKEA "DJUNGELSKOG" orangutan plushie.

The video of the fragile infant clinging to his "Oran-mama" went viral in early February 2026, sparking a global wave of empathy. However, as Punch began his transition into the "Monkey Mountain" enclosure to live with his troop, the story took a darker, more controversial turn. Also Read:  Punch the Monkey Dragged and Bullied Again at Japan Zoo After Brief Signs of Friendship (Watch Video).

'Punch The Monkey' Viral Video:

'Punch The Monkey' Controversy

Recent viral footage showing Punch being roughly dragged and "bullied" by larger monkeys ignited a firestorm of criticism online. Animal lovers worldwide called for the zoo to intervene, fearing for the infant’s safety.

In a formal statement released on February 20, 2026, the Ichikawa City Zoo addressed these concerns head-on. The zoo clarified that what appeared to be "bullying" was actually a crucial, if harsh, lesson in primate etiquette.

"While Punch is scolded, he shows resilience and mental strength... we would like you to support Punch’s effort rather than feel sorry for him," the zoo stated.

Key points from the Zoo's Official Response on 'Punch The Monkey':

  • Maternal Discipline: The "dragging" incident occurred after Punch approached another infant; the mother of that infant stepped in to set boundaries.

  • No Injuries: Veterinary teams confirmed Punch remains physically unharmed despite the rough social dynamics.

  • The Path to "Being a Monkey": The zoo maintains that removing Punch now would stunt his social growth, making it impossible for him to ever truly integrate into a troop. Also Read: ‘Punch the Monkey’ Viral Video: Ichikawa Zoo Issues Statement After Baby Macaque Seen Being Dragged.

Latest Update on 'Punch The Monkey': A Glimmer of Hope

As of this morning, February 21, the narrative is shifting from heartbreak to hope. New observations from the enclosure show a breakthrough: an adult female monkey has begun grooming and hugging Punch. In the world of macaques, grooming is the ultimate "peace treaty." It signals that Punch is finally being accepted as a member of the family rather than an outsider with a toy. While he still retreats to his IKEA orangutan for naps, he is increasingly choosing real social bonds over polyester fur.

TruLY Score by LatestLY
Rating:5

TruLY Score 5 – Trustworthy | On a Trust Scale of 0-5 this article has scored 5 on LatestLY. It is verified through official sources (Ichikawa City Zoo Statement). The information is thoroughly cross-checked and confirmed. You can confidently share this article with your friends and family, knowing it is trustworthy and reliable.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 21, 2026 09:59 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).